Busy Bees' Play Hive — Local services in Norwich

We had my son’s first birthday party here and overall we were extremely disappointed. I paid extra to have the space Early. To my surprise, when arriving the space was actually open to the public during my set up time. I was not notified that this would be the case. I was uncomfortable and unable to decorate the main areas given that there were people sitting at the table and in the play area. Guests for our Party were arriving with patrons still in the building. We had guests sitting, waiting to go into the play area while the staff was spraying Lysol everywhere… The staff was extremely unprofessional, Extremely rude And so unbelievably unhelpful I couldn’t believe that I actually paid money for this place. I would not recommend this place to anyone to have their party. The place was dirty and had cleaning products just laying out in reach for kids to grab. This is not the place you want to have a party!!

EDIT: Given the company’s response to this review I would follow up and add some additional photos for clarification.

First off, I paid an additional $30 to be able to set up 23 minutes early. Upon arriving early the staff greeted us by saying if we started setting up early, we would be charged. However, we said not a problem will pay that fee anyway. For the 23 minutes, they charged us $30 to which we paid. Given that we paid for an extra hour and an additional 23 minutes I do feel as a paying customer you are entitled to that time. Given that we paid to have the space from 11:30-12 to set up (which was $75 to extend an extra 1/2 at the begging and end of event) we should have been the only ones in the space and not open to the public at this time.

The cleaning products in question were on top of the half wall when you walk in the door by the play area (not in the kitchen). Unfortunately I didn’t take a photo while I was there however, I was able to find one on their social media and will attach below. Very dangerous that could easily be knocked over into the play area or a taller child would be able to reach and grab. I also was able to find photos of trash overflowing as well as the unkept flooring, chipping paint, stained foam boards, lifting on the corners of the foam boards (tripping hazard) as well as hair and dust all over the play area. I will link the photos below.

I’m very disappointed how this business is handling our complaints. A simple we are sorry you did not have a good time would’ve been sufficient however they went on to try to gaslight me and bash my character. They also have their friends as well as the staff that worked the event commenting to try to bury my review amongst “ good reviews”. I can’t say this enough do not have a party here. Overpriced and not...

We had our sons second birthday party this past weekend and it was an absolute blast. We got the highest package (I wanna say the worker bee?) and I asked for an extra hour of play. With the package I bought, the staff set up and cleaned up after which was totally worth it. I learned from my son's first birthday party that it was A LOT of work and stress so this time if I could have someone else handle it I was going to and boy was I happy I did that. I booked out our date months in advance, 4 weeks out they called to ask about decorations, give me directions and ask what cake I wanted, and what pizza we wanted to do. The woman that called was very sweet and gave me all the information needed. Any decorations we wanted them to set up they asked us to drop off a few days before hand and let us know we were welcome to come 30 minutes early to make sure everything was how we wanted it but that the play area would still be open to the public until 12. Then I believe his name was Keith called me a few days before to make sure we didn't have any questions and just go over everything again and make sure it was correct which I really appreciated. I ended up only having one item for them to use (money and time got away from me amongst other things lol) and just dropped off a banner. When we got there we found the used just generic decorations but it was perfect and much appreciated! The cake was HUGE. We took the rest home and it took us days to finish. It was also SO GOOD!!! They also used my banner to color match it and put a little cowboy hat on it. The kids had so much fun, even my 9 month old! Overall the experience was great, and we will definitely be booking again for my one year olds birthday party...

Busy Bees is an absolute gem and hands-down one of the best places to bring your kids for a fun, safe, and engaging play experience! From the moment you walk in, it’s clear this isn’t just another indoor play center — it’s a labor of love from owners Shilo and Keith, who have poured their hearts into creating a space that’s both magical for kids and welcoming for parents.

The environment is bright, clean, and thoughtfully designed with little ones in mind. There are so many creative play zones to explore, whether your child loves climbing, building, pretending, or just zooming around — there’s something for everyone. What makes Busy Bees stand out even more is the attention to detail and the genuine care the staff (and the owners themselves) show to every family that walks through the door.

As a family-owned business, you can really feel the personal touch. Shilo and Keith are often there, greeting guests with warm smiles, making sure everything runs smoothly, and truly getting to know the community they’ve built. That kind of passion and presence is rare — and it makes all the difference.

If you’re looking for a place where your kids can burn off energy, use their imagination, and make new friends (while you enjoy a coffee and a moment to relax), Busy Bees is it. Can’t...